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Base of Tongue Tuberculosis: A Case Report
Carlos Miguel Chiesa Estomba1, Ana Sofia Araujo da Costa1, Teresa Rivera Schmitz1
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology - Head & Neck, University Hospital of Vigo, Pontevedra, Spain.
Iranian Journal of Otorhinolaryngology
|June 18, 2015
Summary
Tuberculosis (TB) can manifest in the tongue base, presenting as an ulcerated lesion. Early diagnosis is key for treating this rare extra-pulmonary TB presentation.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Infectious Diseases
- Pathology
Background:
- Tuberculosis (TB) incidence is rising globally, with a significant percentage affecting organs beyond the lungs.
- Extra-pulmonary TB, particularly in the head and neck region, is uncommon.
- The tongue base is an exceptionally rare site for TB manifestation.
Observation:
- A 62-year-old female with rheumatoid arthritis on immunosuppressants presented with pharyngeal foreign body sensation, sore throat, and halitosis.
- Laryngoscopy revealed a 2-3 cm ulcerated, hypertrophic lesion at the right vallecula/tongue base.
- Microbiological analysis confirmed Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
Findings:
- Acid-alcohol resistant bacilli identified via Ziehl Neelsen stain.
- Positive Löwenstein culture confirmed Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
- The patient received tuberculostatic medication.
Implications:
- Tuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of ulcerated tongue base lesions.
- Symptoms like sore throat, dysphagia, and foreign body sensation warrant investigation for TB.
- This case highlights the importance of considering rare TB presentations in immunocompromised patients.
